April 15 @ 7:00 am - April 16 @ 6:00 pm

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This is a guided, paid trip designed for those that want to get into backpacking, but have no idea where to start. However, even a seasoned backpacker will have a great time. Sipsey Wilderness is a beautiful, unique place that is worth visiting for the first time or the tenth.

The price of this trip will include access to all of our rental gear, an expert guide to lead you on the trip, one-on-one time with a guide beforehand to get you ready, and most importantly, the ability for participants to just relax, have fun, and not have to sweat the details. You won’t have to worry about planning, getting lost, finding water, or fighting off bears alone (that’s a joke)! You will also learn more from our guide in 2-3 days than would be possible in 10 or more in-store clinics. We want this trip to be carefree and relaxing while at the same time challenging and enlightening. You will learn all the essential skills to be able to backpack alone in the future. If you’ve been looking for a way to learn how to backpack, but are intimidated by the large amount of gear required, or are afraid you lack the skills to stay safe in the outdoors, this is for you!

I want to stress that this will be a fun trip for any level of backpacker, from new to seasoned. Just because some will be learning, does not mean that more experienced backpackers won’t enjoy it.

When, Where, How Far, etc.

We will meet at the MHO location at Cahaba Village by Whole Foods on Hwy 280 at 7:00am Saturday April 15. We can carpool or drive separately, based on what the group wants to do. The plan is to arrive at the trailhead by 9:00am at the latest, hike in a ways, set up camp, spend the night, then hike out Sunday. We should be back at the cars by 3:00-4:00pm at the absolute latest. We will then drive home.

The specific route and mileage we do will be based on the group’s abilities and desires. If everyone wants a low mileage relaxing trip, we will do that. If you guys want to push it, we can do that. I am guessing we will do about 6-8 miles each day, but may do more or less.

This is a perfect time of year to visit Sipsey, as it should not yet be sweltering hot, and the trees should be beautiful with new leaves. Water should also be flowing well.

Price, Group Size Limits, Age Limits

The price is going to be $175 per person. As stated above, this includes: access to all of our rental gear, an expert guide to lead the trip, one-on-one access to your guide before the trip to get you set up, and the ability to not have to sweat the details.

Group size limitations: At this price, we must have at least three sign up for the trip just to cover our costs. If we can’t get at least three to sign up by April 8, we will have to cancel the trip. The maximum group size (not including Zolen) is 8 participants.

Age limitations: Anyone over the age of 10 years old is eligible to come.